As we prepare for the commencement of licensing in the coming months the Gambling Regulatory Authority of Ireland has published Licensing Application Guidance to assist operators and future licensees familiarise themselves with the licensing process and the various steps to successful submit their licence application.

Under the Gambling Regulation Act 2024, providers of gambling activities operating in Ireland or providing gambling products / gambling related services to consumers in Ireland will require a gambling licence granted by the GRAI. The initial focus is on opening for certain Business-to-Consumer licence applications. Applications for Business-to Business gambling licences and licences for charitable and philanthropic purposes will be accepted at a later stage. Please refer to the licensing section for details of those who require a licence and the phased opening for gambling licence applications.

We intend to accept online applications for both in-person and remote Business-to Consumer Betting licences later this year. In the interim, existing and prospective gambling operators are encouraged to apply for and renew licensing under existing arrangements with the Revenue Commissioners1 , under the Betting Act 1931 and the Gaming and Lotteries Act 1956. Lottery licence and permit applications will continue to be assessed by the District Courts and An Garda Síochána respectively until new licensing arrangements are in place.

You can view the document in full here and familiarise yourself with the approach.

The Gambling Regulator will be here to assist with the process and licensing queries can be addressed to: licensing@grai.ie